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What is valerian?
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a medicinal plant recognized since ancient times for its relaxing and sedative properties. Used in phytotherapy and traditional medicine, it is particularly effective for promoting sleep, reducing stress and calming anxiety.
Its roots are rich in active compounds (valepotriates, valerenic acids, flavonoids) which act on the central nervous system, providing a natural tranquilizing effect.
What are the benefits of valerian?
Valerian is a plant with multiple therapeutic virtues, particularly for managing stress and sleep disorders:
Improves sleep quality → Promotes rapid sleep onset and deeper sleep.
Soothes anxiety and stress → Acts as a natural calming agent by regulating the nervous system.
Reduces agitation and irritability → Useful in cases of nervous tension, overwork or excessive nervousness.
Reduces night-time awakenings → Ideal for people suffering from mild insomnia.
Relieves muscular pain and cramps → Beneficial antispasmodic effect for muscular tension.
Helps regulate mood → Useful against mild mood disorders and irritability.
Improves concentration and relaxation → Allows better management of daily stress without daytime drowsiness.
Alleviates menopausal symptoms → Helps reduce hot flashes and emotional instability.
How to use valerian
Valerian can be consumed in different forms according to need.
As an infusion or herbal tea (dried roots)
To promote sleep → Infuse 1 teaspoon of valerian root in 250 ml of hot water for 10 minutes.
For anxiety and stress → Drink 1 to 3 cups a day, particularly in the evening.
Recommended dosage :
As a short course of treatment lasting 2 to 4 weeks, to avoid addiction.
Optimal effect after several days of regular use.
As a dietary supplement (capsules, tablets, liquid extract)
For sleep disorders → 300 to 600 mg before bedtime.
To relieve stress → 150 to 300 mg, 1 to 2 times a day.
In essential oil or mother tincture
Rapid relaxing action → Take 30 to 50 drops in a glass of water, in the evening.
Diffused for a soothing effect → Mix with lavender or chamomile.
Is valerian effective against insomnia?
Yes, thanks to its natural relaxing effect, it :
Reduces the time it takes to fall asleep.
Improves the quality and depth of sleep.
Reduces night-time awakenings and promotes restful sleep.
It is often combined with other sedative plants such as lemon balm, passionflower or eschscholtzia for an enhanced effect.
Can valerian be used to combat stress and anxiety?
Yes, thanks to its active compounds that regulate the nervous system, it :
Reduces mental agitation and nervous hyperactivity.
Soothes anxiety without causing excessive drowsiness.
Helps manage stressful situations and nervous tension.
Ideal in times of emotional shock, exams or overwork.
Does valerian have side effects?
Although natural and well-tolerated, valerian may cause some people to feel..:
Slight drowsiness during the day, in the case of high doses.
Slowing of reflexes, to be avoided before driving or operating machinery.
Mild digestive problems (bloating, nausea) at the start of treatment.
Interaction with sedatives and sleeping pills, requiring medical advice.
It is recommended not to consume alcohol or other nervous system depressants with valerian.
Is valerian addictive?
No, when used sensibly and for short periods. However, it is advisable to take breaks between courses of treatment to avoid addiction.
Where can I buy quality valerian?
Valerian is available in :
Pharmacies and parapharmacies → Capsules, tablets and standardized extracts.
Organic stores and herbalists → Dried roots for infusion, mother tinctures.
Sites specializing in phytotherapy → Organic products without chemical additives.
Wellness and aromatherapy stores → Relaxing essential oils.
Choose organic valerian, grown with respect for its active ingredients, for greater effectiveness.
Does valerian have any contraindications?
Although natural, it must be used with certain precautions:
Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, except on medical advice.
Do not combine with sedatives or anxiolytics, without the advice of a health professional.
Avoid before activities requiring heightened alertness, such as driving.
Do not use for more than 4 weeks without interruption.
If used in moderation, valerian's benefits can be enjoyed in complete safety.
